Concerned Lawyers, a civil society body committed to the rule of law and safeguarding national interests, has expressed concerns in the Supreme Court judgment permitting individuals with dual allegiance to other countries to be governors.
Spokesperson, Jide Oni, said: “This ruling challenges sections 182 (1) (a) and 187(1) and (2) of Nigerian Constitution, 1999 (as amended), which disqualifies those who have acquired foreign citizenship or declared allegiance to another nation from occupying office of governor.”
He noted “allowing leaders with dual allegiance raises questions about national security, especially when considering the oath of allegiance required in United States, where individuals swear to defend U.S. Constitution against all enemies.
‘’In the event of a conflict, whose constitution will a governor uphold? This uncertainty poses a severe threat, particularly in a country grappling with insecurity that has claimed thousands of lives.”
Beyond national security concerns, Oni said “the issue of dual allegiance intertwines with endemic corruption. Nigerian politicians have exploited dual citizenship to stash ill-gotten wealth abroad, evading accountability and perpetuating corruption. This trend undermines the development of the nation, as elites prioritise personal interests over critical socioeconomicl challenges.”
He called on stakeholders, including National Assembly and civil society “to engage in a dialogue addressing these concerns. It is crucial to ensure that constitutional provisions are upheld to maintain the integrity, national security, and socioeconomic interests of Nigeria.”